Multiple Sclerosis Specialist

Michigan Neurology Associates & PC

Over a million Americans are living with the effects of multiple sclerosis (MS), and new cases are being diagnosed every year. At Michigan Neurology Associates & PC, with offices serving the Metro Detroit area in Clinton Township, St. Clair Shores, Utica, and Westland, Michigan, the board-certified neurologists provide comprehensive diagnostic and treatment options for multiple sclerosis and related symptoms. An experienced psychologist is also on-site to help you with the emotional aspects of MS. Learn more about coping with multiple sclerosis by scheduling an appointment online or by phone today at the office nearest you.

Multiple Sclerosis Q & A

What is multiple sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a debilitating disease that affects your central nervous system and interferes with the information that travels between your brain, spinal cord, and other parts of your body.

Your nerve fibers are surrounded by myelin, which insulates and protects the fibers. In MS, your own immune system damages the myelin, altering the messages that travel to your brain. This disruption causes a variety of neurological symptoms that can range from mild to severe.

While the root cause of MS isn’t well understood, your risk for the disease may increase due to:

Genetics

Environmental factors

Immune system disorders

While there’s no cure for MS, there are several treatments that can slow down the progression of the disease and enhance your quality of life.

What are the symptoms of multiple sclerosis?

The symptoms of MS affect individuals differently, and the disease can be unpredictable. Some of the most common symptoms of MS occur with other medical conditions and need an evaluation by the staff at Michigan Neurology Associates & PC. These symptoms may include:

Dizziness

Chronic fatigue

Loss of balance

Muscle weakness

Learning and memory issues

Bowel and bladder dysfunction

Numbness or tingling in the extremities

Coping with the symptoms of MS can also affect your behavior and mental health, causing anxiety, depression, and mood swings. With advanced MS, you may also struggle with speech problems, seizures, or difficulty breathing.

What treatments are available for multiple sclerosis?

Treating MS is a complicated process and the team at Michigan Neurology Associates & PC work together with you to create the most effective plan to help manage your MS-related symptoms. There are medications available which can help slow down the progression of the disease and reduce the amount of symptom relapse associated with MS.

In addition to medications, the team may suggest physical therapy to improve muscle strength and coordination. Rehabilitation programs are also effective at ensuring your safety at home and on the job. Programs can include exercises to improve your cognitive function, speech, and overall mobility.

Dietary changes can help ensure you’re providing your body with the proper nutrition to stay strong and healthy.

The compassionate staff at Michigan Neurology Associates & PC also offer emotional support to help you cope with your MS symptoms. They provide valuable resources to ensure good mental health as you work through MS therapies, coordinating care with the on-site psychologist.

To learn more about diagnostic and treatments available for multiple sclerosis, schedule a consultation online or by phone today.